Interested in taking AP Human Geography in 2020-21? 

If so, please read the following information about Mr. Fox's new pilot program called AP Aspire. This will help you make the best decision possible for your 9th grade social studies class!

​

​

What is DSA's new AP Aspire Program? 

In order to support 8th graders & their families making an informed choice about what social studies class to take in 9th grade, DSA’s 9th grade AP teacher (Mr. Fox) is providing opportunities for students to explore AP Human Geography content and skills earlier than before.

 

To support students making the best decision for their 9th grade year, Mr. Fox is currently working with 8th grade teachers to do the following:

• Provide optional (or mandatory) extension assignments that foreshadow the rigor and expectations of what students will see in AP Human Geography.

• Organize AP Ambassadors (current and former high school AP students) to participate in Q&A panels with 8th grade students during the 2020 spring semester.

• Provide optional meeting times for 8th grade students throughout the 2020 spring semester for students to ask questions and receive more personalized information about AP Human Geography.

• Develop ideas for individualized supports and engagement that ensures students from diverse backgrounds feel supported and included in AP Human Geography.

 

​

How do I participate in DSA's new AP Aspire Program?

Even if you are unsure of your choice of studies for 2020-2021, all you need to do is communicate with your 8th grade social studies teacher regularly about what you can do to prepare. They will be working with Mr. Fox to ensure you have access to the AP Aspire programming materials &/or events as they are developed and scheduled.

 

If you choose not to participate in the AP Aspire Programming, please note that you are still welcome to sign up for AP Human Geography for the 2020-2021 school year. However, Mr. Fox is expecting any students even somewhat interested in the course do their best to take advantage of this program to ensure it is the best choice for them.

​

​

Will an AP course be too hard for me?

AP classes can be challenging, but that doesn’t mean you’re not up to the task. If you’re willing to work hard and if you’re prepared academically, you should be able to succeed in an AP course.

​

​

How do I know if I'm ready to take AP Human Geography in 9th grade?

While all 8th students should consider taking AP Human Geography as a 9th grader, there are some important questions to ask yourself when making this decision. Below are key considerations to think about as an 8th grader:

 

• Am I currently struggling to manage my time and to get homework assignments completed?

• Am I currently having trouble remembering important information, concepts and skills that I’ve seen multiple times?

• Do I historically struggle with high-level non-fiction readings that present dense information with rigorous vocabulary?

• Do I currently struggle with learning, remembering and using important academic vocabulary in class discussions and writing exercises?

• Do I currently struggle with organizing and maintaining important assignments, class materials and/or notes?

• Do I tend to give up or get frustrated easily with assignments/tasks that I find difficult or challenging?

 

If you answered “yes” to TWO or more of these questions, taking AP Human Geography as a 9th grader may not be the best choice for you. Remember, you can always take an AP course later in high school when you feel more prepared!

​

What are important upcoming dates for taking AP Human Geo in 2020-21?

The following dates are important to keep in mind when determining if AP Human Geography is right for you:

• February 11th, 2020: 8th grade choice of studies meeting with DSA Administration

• February 13th, 2020: AP Information Session for interested 8th and 9th graders

  • Option 1- High School Lunch (12:40-1:15) in DSA’s Concert Hall

  • Option 2- After school (3:00-3:30) in DSA’s Concert Hall

• February 28th, 2020: Choice of Studies window closes

• May 21st, 2020: AP Human Geography Summer Assignment Meeting

  • 3:00-3:30 in DSA room 202